What exactly is China IV (China V) for vehicles?
4 Answers
China IV (China V) in vehicle parameters means that this model meets two emission standards, which are specifically produced by manufacturers according to different regions. In cities requiring China V standards, China V-compliant models are released, while in cities with China IV standards, China IV-compliant models are offered. Emission standards are established to control vehicle pollutant emissions. To curb the generation of these harmful gases and encourage automakers to improve their products to reduce the sources of these emissions, various countries have formulated relevant vehicle emission standards. The China VI emission standard refers to the standard developed to implement the Environmental Protection Law of the People's Republic of China and the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Law of the People's Republic of China, aiming to prevent pollution from compression-ignition and gas-fueled spark-ignition engine vehicle exhaust, protect the ecological environment, and safeguard human health.
This is a question I often get asked. As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, China IV refers to the China 4 emission standard, which was introduced around 2010. China V is the China 5 standard, which became mandatory in major cities starting from 2017. China IV was based on the Euro 4 version, while China V is the localized version of Euro 5 with stricter requirements, such as halving nitrogen oxide emissions and further reducing particulate matter. I've driven a China IV-compliant car before, and the exhaust fumes smelled a bit pungent. Later, when I switched to a new China V-compliant car, it felt cleaner, and fuel consumption was slightly lower. These policy upgrades are aimed at combating smog and improving urban air quality. When choosing a used car, always check the emission standard marked on the registration certificate to avoid being misled. Overall, China V is the code name for China 5, representing a more advanced and environmentally friendly level.
As an amateur environmental enthusiast, I pay close attention to the impact of vehicle emissions. China IV represents the National Phase IV standard, while China V is the National Phase V standard - simply put, it's the fifth stage of emission limits. It's significantly stricter than Phase IV with more refined pollutant controls, such as substantially reducing PM2.5 emissions, which directly decreases air pollution. I've observed that since cities implemented Phase V standards, the number of smoggy days has declined, proving the upgrade's effectiveness. I recommend car owners prioritize vehicles meeting Phase V or higher standards - it protects the environment long-term while saving fuel costs. Environmental awareness starts with daily choices, and such standard upgrades are positive developments.
From a technical perspective, China IV refers to National 4 emission standards, while China V is National 5. The main differences lie in engine and aftertreatment system upgrades. For instance, China 5 mandates DPF filtration to reduce particulate emissions, whereas China 4 has less stringent requirements. Having worked at a repair shop, I've observed China 5 vehicles start faster and run more smoothly in real-world tests. Standard upgrades mean cleaner and more efficient cars, but remember not to skip maintenance.
